Picking Reception Site Checklist

Wedding Reception Checklist

___	Is your wedding date available? Reserve the Site
___	Sign an agreement and leave a deposit.
___	Decide on theme, style and colors.
___	Is the church and ceremony site close together?
___	How many guests are you going to invite?
___	How many guests will the space accommodate?
___	Do you have plans for families with children?
___	Are there adequate restrooms for guests?
___	Are facilities available for handicapped guests?
___	Is there a room to change?
___	Are there coat check accommodations?
___	How about a secure place to put purses or other valuables?
___	Will there be a table be available for gifts?
___	What type and number of security personnel?
___	What other facilities/accommodations special features?
___	Does the site have a time limit or curfew?
___	If you want a tent, is there one available that the site regularly uses?
___	If not, how far in advance can you set one up and are there.
___	Are there restrictions on who can do the set-up?
___	What kind of parking facilities are there?
___	What about valet parking?
___	What other options are available?

Caterer

___	Will the catering manager/executive chef help plan the menu?
___	Will the caterer help you organize the event?
___	Will a banquet manager be at the event?
___	Who organizes the events during the reception.
___	Can someone help with the decorations in the room?
___	What kind of help does the facility offer?
___	Are kitchen facilities adequate for an off-site caterer?
___	Will the caterer have to bring a portable kitchen?
___	Will there be an on-site wedding coordinator at the reception?

Food & Drink

___	What types of packages and themes are available?
___	What will be included in the menu for each price range?
___	What types of appetizers for the cocktail hour?
___	What is the price per guest for appetizers, drinks and dinner?
___	Will the guests be offered a choice of entrees?
___	Do they offer sit down service, buffet or stations?
___	What substitutes are available on the menu?
___	What about vegetarian and restricted diets?
___	Compare the cost of an open bar vs. cocktail service?
___	What type of liquor does the facility offer?
___	Are non-alcoholic beverages available?
___	Can you provide your own alcohol?
___	What is the corkage fee and is there a minimum?
___	What is the dessert table policy?
___	What is the wedding cake cutting fee?
___	How will the food be served? servers, buffet or at stations?
___	How will the waiters and waitresses be dressed?
___	How many waiters and waitresses will there be?
___	Are there discount prices for children and senior citizens?

Other Fees

___	Are there any extra rental fees or is everything included?
___	Are tables, chairs, linens and decorations included in the fee?
___	Are there overtime charges? When do they start and how much?
___	Are the tips and taxes included in the bill or separate?
___	(ask for tip recommendations)
___	Is there a minimum guarantee?
___	How should payment be made?
___	What is the deposit fee?
___	When is the balance due?
___	What is the cancellation/postponement refund policy?

Details

___	Will you be given time to decorate the reception site the day of the wedding?
___	What colors are available and what condition is the room in?
___	Are the china and flatware in good condition?
___	Do you have a choice of patterns?
___	Will there be other receptions that day?
___	Will they put a strain on joint facilities?
___	How large is the dance floor?
___	Is there enough room for dancing and for the band or dj to set up?
___	Are there any restrictions on amplified music?
___	Are there any restrictions on Smoking?
___	What are the terms of liability insurance?
___	What is the sequence of events?
___	Will there be a guest book table and a place for an attendent?
___	Make seating arrangements.
___	Order favors and gifts for guests.
___	Get a final count to the catering manager.